Watermead Country Park

Selected Wild Place / Other Wild Places / Public Rights of Way / VC55 boundary

Getting There

Access to the northern part of Watermead Country Park is off Fillingate: follow signs for 'Watermead Country Park North' from the A46 to reach the car park (£2.50 fee) at SK 606 106. From here it is possible to walk south to Birstall, or alternatively park in the car park at the end of Meadow Lane in Birstall (SK 602 096).

Managed By
Leicestershire County Council and Leicester City Council (southern section)
Wild places

Site species count:

Description
Watermead Country Park is a 140-hectare site that is nearly two miles long and as its name suggests it is a wetland area with over 12 lakes and smaller ponds. The Park is developing one of the largest reedbed areas in the Midlands and has five birdhides, including a 2-storey hide. Running through the Park are the River Soar and Grand Union Canal which provide an essential corridor for wildlife. It has a good network of suraced paths.
Wildlife Highlights

This is an excellent site for waterfowl and a winter hotspot for goosander and other migrants such as smew. Kingfishers and water rail are frequently seen. The rough grassland areas are also very good for insects.

Bioblitz image.JPG

In 2010 a bioblitz was held at Watermead Park, organised by the City Council. A list of the species found can be seen here.

A 10 minute video wildlife walk around Mammoth Lake in Watermead South can be viewed here.

 

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